U.S. Senator Chris Murphy is advocating for better health insurance options for shellfish farmers and the aquaculture industry.
Murphy sent a letter to the U.S. Agriculture Committee Chairman, calling for access to more insurance options. The letter is also signed by Senators Kirsten Gillebrand from New York, Ben Cardin from Maryland and Sheldon Whitehouse from Rhode Island.
"Shellfish farming is an important and growing industry in each of our states. …Demand for shellfish has continued to skyrocket, creating many opportunities for producers to expand operations and create jobs. Supporting this growth and giving shellfish farmers the tools to expand is vital to the health of coastal economies and communities in our states," wrote the senators.
"Despite the importance of this industry, current insurance options are inadequate and often hamstring farmers from expanding their operations. Shellfish farmers are at a high risk of losing their crop because of weather events, diseases, and changes in the marine environment. These risks amplify the need for farmers to have workable, affordable insurance options like those available to land farmers."
